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Fresh Voices Finalist Options Winning Screenplay!

bill balas headshotHollywood, Ca. October 2011

As a direct result of his placement in the 2010 Fresh Voices Screenplay Competition, screenwriter Bill Balas has optioned his winning screenplay, Aleady Gone, to producers Peter Katz and Don Le.

Bill’s journey began in February 2011 when his script was chosen from nearly 1,000 entries and announced a finalist in the Thriller Category of the 2010 Fresh Voices Screenplay Competition. While submitting the winning scripts to producers, Fresh Voices were approached by Peter and Don seeking high quality thrillers that could be made on a budget. Having read a number of samples, they quickly identified Already Gone as their next project.

Peter Katz has produced several films, including the iconic filmmaker Tobe Hooper’s 2005 film Mortuary, and Pop Skull directed by Adam Wingard. Don Le most recently produced The Resistance for Starz and Ghost House Pictures.

Said Peter Katz, “upon my request, Fresh Voices found me exactly the script I’ve been looking for; a brilliant thriller with compelling characters and an intensity that permeates every page. It’s great to have discovered such a talented screenwriter as Bill.”

Bill Balas said, “I am thrilled to have optioned my screenplay and to be working with Peter and Don. Their enthusiasm for the script is really exciting. Fresh Voices have been amazing in promoting my work and giving me this great opportunity.”

Already Gone is a gritty thriller about a low level thug who suffers from a debilitating disease, but finds his life in real jeopardy after he inadvertently rips off the Irish Mob. The film is slated for an anticipated 2012 production date.


Founded by experienced industry professionals, Fresh Voices is a consulting service and annual screenplay competition for aspiring screenwriters. Their goal is simple; to prepare emerging writers with the tools, guidance and opportunity to develop a great screenplay and pursue a successful career, while offering the industry a trusted conduit for fresh new material and talented screenwriters. Since 2009, Fresh Voices Screenplay Competition has distinguished itself as one of the leading competitions to offer genuine opportunities and a tangible career boost to winning screenwriters.